As there are tectonic reverberations in the field of technology, there is an imperative need to equip future managers with modern digital skills. The rapid acceleration of digital transformation, especially post-pandemic, has fundamentally reshaped industries worldwide.
As businesses increasingly rely on digital tools and platforms, the gap between traditional management practices and evolving digital demands has become more evident. Companies that fail to adapt risk falling behind.
Today’s business leaders face unique challenges – navigating remote workforces, utilising big data, and integrating AI into decision-making. Traditional management practices, while valuable, are often inadequate.
Managers must now possess digital fluency, a deep understanding of emerging technologies, and the ability to lead in an agile, ever-changing environment. Preparing future managers for these challenges is not just important; it is critical to business survival and growth.
The key to preparing future managers lies in a transformative education model – one that blends leadership fundamentals with advanced digital skills. Higher education institutions must prioritise curricula that not only teach core management principles but also integrate real-world digital tools and strategies. Hands-on learning in digital analytics, AI-driven decision-making, and virtual leadership will be pivotal in shaping tomorrow’s business leaders.
The evolving management landscape: It has become imperative to shift from traditional to digital-first operations as organisations are now navigating a landscape shaped by remote and hybrid work environments, where flexibility and adaptability are paramount.
According to the ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the digital economy in India is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2025, emphasising the urgency for managers to adapt to digital frameworks.
Moreover, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation is creating new challenges and opportunities. Managers are now expected to understand AI’s implications for their teams and decision-making processes.
With these changes come altered expectations: modern managers must be visionaries who can harness technology to foster collaboration and drive innovation.
According to NASSCOM, 78 per cent of manufacturing firms in India have established a clear AI strategy, while 67 per cent are currently experimenting with AI proof of concepts or limited applications, making it imperative for future managers to develop a keen understanding of these technologies.
Essential digital-era management skills: To thrive in this evolving landscape, future managers must cultivate essential skills tailored for the digital age:
Data-driven decision making: The capability to analyse and interpret data is crucial. Managers need to effectively utilise analytics to shape strategies and enhance performance.
Digital literacy and tech adaptability: Understanding various digital tools and platforms is essential.
Virtual team management and collaboration: With the rise of remote work, managing virtual teams has become essential. Future managers should possess skills in building trust and collaboration within distributed teams, fostering an inclusive culture.
Digital communication mastery: Effective communication in a digital-first environment is vital. Managers must be proficient in various communication tools and platforms.
Education system transformation: The current gap between traditional management education and industry needs is glaring. Educational institutions must integrate digital tools and technologies into their curricula to prepare students for the workforce.
Today’s business leaders face unique challenges – navigating remote workforces, utilising big data, and integrating AI into decision-making
The All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has recommended that management programmes incorporate digital literacy, ensuring that graduates are equipped with relevant skills.
Experiential learning is also essential in bridging this gap. Incorporating real-world case studies, simulations, and industry projects can provide students with hands-on experience and insights into contemporary management challenges.
The path forward: For aspiring managers, the path forward involves a commitment to continuous learning and upskilling. Embracing a growth mindset is vital in an era characterised by rapid technological advancements.
Balancing human skills – such as empathy, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence – with digital capabilities is equally important. As the future of work evolves, the ability to connect with teams on a human level will remain a cornerstone of effective management.
Educational institutions must take proactive steps to equip future managers with the skills necessary for success in the digital era. By embracing digital transformation and fostering a culture of innovation, we can create a vision for future-ready managers.
As we look ahead, let us prioritise the integration of digital competencies in management education to ensure that we are preparing the next generation of managers for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The author is Co-founder and CEO, Sunstone